ENG 223 Difference, Power, and Discrimination in Film

The course will investigate cinematic representations of femininity and masculinity and analyze how film, as a commercial art form geared toward mass consumption, can reinforce or challenge socially constructed notions of gender identity. The course will also explore film representations of gender’s intersections with other forms of identities--primarily sexuality, race, class, and ability. Using both “classical” Hollywood and contemporary films, this course will introduce students to the central tenets of relevant film and critical theory, and illustrate the ways in which film representations can perpetuate and subvert aspects of dominant ideologies.